I've been playing this since pre-release and still love it. Extremely versatile gameplay, user-friendly UI with little need for integrated add-ons, ridiculously amazing graphics, and a set of developers that work hard to maintain the balance of the game while always offering something fresh to keep the game from being stagnant. The best of all MMORPGs.

Completely different gameplay. Obviously still turn based but there have been numerous changes that really set this one apart from all the rest, such as the ability for settlers/military to cross shallow ocean waters without transports. Also, culture, golden age, and happiness measurements have new formulas for acrual and use. It definitely will take time to make the adjustment to comprehending and fully understanding all the new characteristics of the game, but I highly recommend it for it's graphics, style, and user friendliness.